Malombe hosts Japanese ambassador in Kitui

Kitui Governor Julius Malombe on Thursday held talks with the Japanese ambassador to Kenya Okanawa Ken dwelling on areas of mutual cooperation.

The duo discussed, among other issues, areas of cooperation in matters climate change and environmental conservation through research on new drought-tolerant tree species.

The envoy said the Japanese government had through the Japanese International Cooperation Agency supported reforestation initiatives in Kitui.

Okanawa said that the support was through the development of drought-resilient tree varieties in conjunction with Kenya Forestry Research Institute.

“We are keen to introduce new and improved varieties of trees which are more resilient to the drier climate such as the melia volkensii,"the ambassador said. 

Okinawa further said that the hard wood tree species was ideal for  timber production besides its additional value of  improving the county’s tree cover.

The envoy also said that Kitui was among some 20 counties which JICA plans to engage in adoption of the new approach so as to support farmers in making the right decisions regarding choice of best suited tree species, besides market for tree products. 

Governor Malombe commended agency for its continued support to climate change adaptation efforts in Kitui county and beyond.

“My administration is committed to upscale tree planting in every corner of this county in order to enhance Kitui’s forest cover thereby mitigating the adverse climate change effects which have over the years threatened water and food security,” he said.

The governor welcomed JICA’s support towards the success of his environmental conservation plan.

Malombe said that Kitui, under his leadership, will be at the forefront in supporting President William Ruto’s nationwide 15 billion tree growing target.